It was Lyle Keewatin Richards who brought attention to the long forgotten cemetery across the river from Fort Normandeau.
But this time it was the longtime Red Deer resident’s efforts that were not to be forgotten.
Mayor Morris Flewwelling chose Keewatin Richards for the Mayor’s Special Award on Wednesday night at the Black Night Inn.
The Red Deer Royals, plus 36 other people, were also recognized for their work and achievements at the annual Mayor’s Recognition Awards Presentation Ceremony.
Keewatin Richards received the highest possible recognition from the City of Red Deer for his leadership in diversity and aboriginal affairs.
He has been in the spotlight sharing his views as the former president of the Red Deer Friendship Centre and chair of the Central Alberta Diversity Association.
Twelve people were awarded for their achievements in athletics. This award recognizes individuals or teams placing first, in a national event or first, second or third in an international event or competition.
Fifteen recipients were awarded for citizenship under the continuous voluntary service category, which recognizes people who have 15 continuous years, or more, of volunteer service that has had identifiable benefits on Red Deer.
Six people were presented with citizenship awards under the distinguished voluntary service category, which recognizes individuals for volunteer service that has been remarkable in Red Deer.
Finally, two people, along with the Red Deer Royals, were presented with fine and performing arts awards. The awards recognize an individual or group for international or national acceptance.
“These awards embody the great community spirit that Red Deerians have,” said Flewwelling.
“These people have done some pretty amazing things in our community, completely voluntary,” said City of Red Deer corporate events specialist Charlaine Rausch.
The award winners were nominated throughout the year. The submissions are given to the legislative and government services office at the City of Red Deer where they are judged by a confidential five-member committee, said Rausch.
Over 300 people attended the ceremony on Wednesday.
The Mayor’s Recognition Awards were established in 1990 to recognize achievements and volunteer service.
For a full list of award recipients visit, www.reddeer.ca.
jjones@www.reddeeradvocate.com